Builds

This particular bike started as a 1971 CB750 in very bad shape and in desperate need of a second chance and complete transformation. Due to the fact that the only usable components of the donor bike were the frame and the bottom case of the motor, the opportunity arose for the shop to implement some performance and aesthetic enhancements that had not been utilized prior. With an increasing interest toward vintage Japanese motorcycles and an appreciation for the cost that it takes to really make something that outperforms its previous potential, we are reaching an unprecedented congruence between value and price tag.

The original 736cc motor was punched to an 820cc engine with a brand new moderately aggressive camshaft. The motor was fitted with reconditioned and re-jetted carburetors and velocity stacks. Brand new Excel shouldered aluminum wheels re-laced with custom cut stainless spokes paired well with the triple rotored brake design. The front brake incorporates a custom fit dual banjo manifold while the rear brake was specifically designed with a modern rear master cylinder and remote brake reservoir—all fitted neatly into the brake side rear set. The shortened and lowered front fender is held externally by hand-formed electroplated aluminum braces. The copper electroplating was carried throughout the build and is prominently featured in the rare Italian headlamp. The headlight was the perfect accompaniment to the aesthetic fullness of the XS1100 fuel tank. The hand-formed signature seat brought just the right length of color and balance to the overall wheelbase of the machine. The paint color was inspired by the 1963 Ford Galaxy’s paint swatch code called ‘Wimbledon White’. Between the paint selection and copper highlights, our very own aluminum oil tank, the cast iron finish of the motor against the walnut brown leather seat, and tasteful chrome highlights, there is nothing that I would have done differently on this build.

The RHCB820 was featured at The 5th annual invitation only ‘One Show’ in Portland, Oregon in February 2014 and will ultimately find its home in Denver, Colorado. If timing permits, this bike could be featured at one last invitational bike show.